Chinese Bank Supports 100 Myanmar University Students with Scholarships

The Bank of China (Hong Kong) Yangon Branch recently awarded scholarships to 100 students from the University of Yangon, providing crucial financial assistance for the first semester of the 2024-2025 academic year, according to a Xinhua News report.

Personal Impact and Student Experiences

The scholarship program has made a significant difference in the lives of many students. Wint Wah Wah Lwin, a 23-year-old biochemistry honors student, shared her excitement: “This is the first time I’ve received a scholarship from Bank of China (BOC). It helps reduce my financial burden.” With a family struggling to support multiple students in higher education, Wint plans to use the scholarship to prepare for her master’s studies and alleviate her parents’ financial strain.

Similarly, Aung Naing Min, a 20-year-old math major, expressed gratitude for the continued support. “This is the third year I’ve received a stipend from the Bank of China. Before this, I had to rely entirely on my family for expenses. The support has been a huge help to me,” he explained.

Broader Educational Significance

The program’s impact extends beyond individual students. Dr. Lin Aung, deputy governor of the Central Bank of Myanmar, emphasized the broader implications: “The scholarship program not only directly benefits students but also uplifts the socioeconomic conditions of their families and contributes to the country’s human resource development.”

Dr. Than Than Win from the Ministry of Education noted the program’s dual purpose of providing financial aid and recognizing outstanding students. She also highlighted the long-standing diplomatic relationship between Myanmar and China, which spans over 70 years.

Program Details and Future Outlook

Launched in 2022, the BOC scholarship initiative has become an annual support system for University of Yangon students. This year’s ceremony awarded 75 stipends and 25 scholarships, totaling support for 100 students. Aung Kyaw Kyaw, a third-year physics honors student receiving the scholarship for the first time, exemplified the program’s practical impact. “With this financial award, I will buy the chemicals I need for my project, which is crucial for completing my degree,” he said.

The scholarships not only provide financial relief but also offer internship opportunities, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to supporting Myanmar’s young scholars.